Blue Thunder for real [purplecthulhu]

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I swear I saw an Apache attack helicopter buzzing London on my way in to work today. I guess this is something to do with Bush's security, but shudder to think what would happen if something occurred and it opened fire. Even if it hit its target the collateral damage would be enormous. And if it isn't armed what's the point of having an Apache?

Appalled.

Mood::

angry

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There are 6 comments on this entry. (Reply.)

Bear in mind that the British Army operate them as well - it's not necessarily part of Bush's security entourage.

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True - but the only time I've seen those in London has been for flypasts, and there have been some odd US kit buzzing around already...

I only caught a glimpse, but I don't think it was flying over the river, which would be the standard Army flight path.

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There are also a set of standard routes in and out of the Thames.

One thing to note is that the Thames flight path is only mandatory for civil single engined helicopters (though others use it as a matter of courtesy). As Apache are multi-engined they're allowed to fly anywhere...

I don't think that the presidential entourage includes any Apaches, so it was probably one of "ours".

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One presumes it's there to intercept and warn off other aircraft, and to provide airsupport if they have to get Bush out quickly by helicopter or motorcade ... and yes, if it had to engage there would be collateral damage, but their primary job is to "protect the President" and if that results in the deaths of tens or hundreds of Londoners (or more), then I'm sure they are prepared to do so.

I can understand that mentality and set of priorities ... I don't have to agree with it!

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